Topraq-Kala

Topraq-Kala is an ancient city located in Uzbekistan's Karatau Mountains. It was first built by the kings of Sogd in the 4th century BC, and then further developed by the nomadic empire, the Kushans. Later it was conquered by the Persian Sassanids, and in the 8th century it became an official city of the Samanid Empire. Archaeological excavations at the site reveal a great variety of Iranian, Greek and Hellenistic-influenced dressing elements. A unique feature of the site is a large citadel located at its centre, surrounded by a thick wall. The citadel contains a host of well-preserved temples, palaces and other structures, including an impressive fort which dates back to the 4th century BC. The complex also houses a three-roomed temple whose walls are decorated with polychrome tiles. One of the most interesting sites within the complex is an ancient fire-temple which is now used as a museum. Visitors will also find a collection of terracotta sculptures that reflect the local tradition of clay modelling.